The announcement by the NSW Planning Minister that he has approved the development of up to 10,000 new homes in the Tralee and Googong areas is a threat to the lifestyle of Canberra residents.
Federal Labor members Bob McMullan MP, Annette Ellis MP and Senator Kate Lundy are concerned that the approval flies in the face of the recommendations of the NSW government’s Independent Panel on planning in the region.
“At a time when ACT residents are on level three water restrictions, I am especially worried about where the NSW government intends to get the water supply for these 10,000 new homes”, Annette Ellis, Member for Canberra, said.
“Canberra residents should not lose one drop of water to support this NSW development”, Ms Ellis said.
Ms Ellis said she was also concerned about the impact of possible future changes to flight paths on residents of Canberra’s southern suburbs. “I will continue to fight to protect the lifestyle of local residents”, Ms Ellis said.
ACT Labor Senator Kate Lundy said that the NSW government’s approval of 130 hectares of “employment land” at the back of Hume is double-speak for a massive industrial development.
“Whilst I support initiatives to create jobs in the region, they must come with the infrastructure needed to support it – roads and public transport, water and waste treatment. Industrial development must be balanced with measures to protect our lifestyles and our region”, Senator Lundy said.
Federal member for Fraser Bob McMullan said that residents who move into the new developments will surely complain about aircraft noise. This could lead to a curfew on the Canberra Airport which would reduce the economic benefits to our region.
“I have serious concerns about the possible future impact of changes to flight paths over northern Canberra”, Bob McMullan said.
“Together with my federal Labor colleagues, I will fight any attempt to change Canberra Airport flight paths over the ACT.”
The three federal Labor representatives said that they will be closely monitoring negotiations between the ACT Government and Queanbeyan City Council over the progress of the developments.
“We will be seeking assurances that this development won’t grow beyond the current proposal. This would have disastrous implications for the region as a whole.”
Contact: Taryn Langdon 0417 148 059
